Abstract

Whole Cell Sensing System for Environmental Monitoring

Nico Rooij, Professor, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne

We present a whole cell analysis system for detection of toxins in the environment. In this system, the metabolic response of living cells to toxic compounds in the environmental water samples is the assessment tool for sample evaluation. The living cells are kept in a well-controlled condition. Prior to bringing the samples into contact with the cells, the samples are treated in a fully automated system for adjustment of pH and osmolality to the standard values of the cell-culture medium. For evaluation of the cells response, 20 µl of the cell-culture medium is transferred to a microfluidic cartridge where glucose and lactate are measured amperometrically. The concentration of glucose and lactate inside the cell-culture medium is an indicator of the cells vitality.